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Editorial Reviews

Publishers Weekly - Publisher's Weekly

French endocrinologist Baulieu, with the help of Associated Press senior correspondent Rosenblum, promotes the ``abortion pill,'' RU-486, which remains unavailable in the U.S. Baulieu's research in sex hormones was instrumental in the synthesis of RU-486 over a decade ago; here, he explains how the pill disrupts hormone signals, thus either preventing fertilization or separating the fertilized egg from the uterine wall. Judged safe, affordable and nearly 100% effective in European testing--though not without discomfort--RU-486 constitutes an alternative to the ``pain and mutilation'' of ``outmoded'' methods of abortion, a boon to Third World nations, here ... and a possible boost to immunological defenses, says Baulieu. He skillfully counters detractors with statistical evidence of RU-486's success, with positive testimonies from former patients and evidence of international support. Although this informative primer is at times dry--Baulieu is a scientist, not a raconteur--it merits attention from both pro-choice and pro-life camps. Photos not seen by PW. (Nov.)

Library Journal - Library Journal

Deploring the serious health risk childbirth posed for so many women around the world, Baulieu, the French endocrinologist chiefly responsible for the ``abortion pill'' RU-486, became involved early on in fertility control research. Here he discusses his own background, the history of RU-486 research, and his company's worldwide struggle to market the drug. The United States is not the only seat of strong opposition to RU-486, and in almost every country ``some obstacle beyond medicine stands between women and the freedom to shape their own lives.'' For libraries wanting comprehensive coverage of RU-486, Baulieu's international and scientific treatment of the contragestive is a nice complement to Lawrence Lader's politically impassioned and U.S.-oriented RU-486 ( LJ 4/15/91). Libraries forced to make a choice should select Lader's book for its American focus.-- Linda Knaack, Mt. Ida Coll., Newton, Mass.